I once again feel compelled to do yet another job hunting public service announcement...
I can't even count how many times people have come in for a job interview looking like a hot mess. Whether it's way too much make-up, wildly inappropriate shoes (clear heels are a no-no) or skirts so short I can almost see your hoo-ha, there are just some things that shouldn't be worn in the professional world. Now, I tend to think this is because I live in Miami, a land where girls wear clubbing clothes to 7-11 and put full on drag make-up to go to the gym, but I've heard from many of you that this is kind of a problem everywhere.
For instance, I don't care of you put a jacket over the dress shown below, there's no way in hell you should be walking into a job interview wearing it. And yes, I've seen the like and maybe even worse at times. Moral of the story: clubbing clothes do not equal career clothes.
Does this mean you have to go all boring corporate? Of course not! Trust me, I hate boring (and uncomfortable) office attire as much as the next person.
The good news is there are a ton of ways to rock some awesome fashion in the office. And the best part? You can do it WITHOUT breaking the bank.
There's always an opportunity to add a pop of color or some spunk to the typical black and khakis of corporate life. For instance, ladies can wear a nice dress in a unique color and then tone it down with neutral heels. (My inner rocker child couldn't do just plain neutral so I've got some spikes for added flair). This works for the office, a presentation or heading out to happy hour afterward. Cute and versatile! (Only thing missing is a cute belt - I'm working on it!)
The guys don't usually get into much fashion trouble as the girls do, but there's definitely some stuff you all should keep in mind.
Gentlemen shouldn't be looking like a hot mess either, and I don't want to hear the excuse that you don't have as many options as girls do. In fact you can do very similar things by paring a neutral suit with a pop of color for your dress shirt or tie. And for the record guys, jeans are not okay for job interviews. Unfortunately I've seen quite a few of you make this mistake and I really really wish you wouldn't. Also make sure your clothes are well fitted, comb your hair and shave to be on the safe side (kind of old school I know, but better safe than sorry.)
And this applies for the both of you - don't go for cheap looking, poorly made clothes! This is definitely something I've needed to get used to (as has my wallet) in my post college days. Sure, the places we shopped at as teenagers and broke college kids have fun stuff for not very much money, but unfortunately you tend to sacrifice quality much of the time.
(Don't worry Forever 21, you will always have a special place in my heart.)
Good news - There are ways around the ridiculous price tags, since now instead of being broke college kids we're 20something professionals. We've got job interviews, meetings, networking events, lunch meetings, you name it! We've got to look snazzy while we embark on this journey!
Below you will find some of my favorite places to find better quality, unique and fun attire for the office without having to sell your body to science.
HauteLook (Men and Women)
I am obsessed with Hautelook. In fact, I don't think I have shopped for clothes anywhere else since I discovered this amazing site. Everyday at 8AM Pacific you can find new sales from some great brands at up to 75% off the original price. Best of all - membership is totally free! I can honestly say that the majority of my work wardrobe - and definitely some of my favorite pieces - have come from this site.
(Sometimes shipping can be a bit pricey, but it's totally worth it!)
ShoeDazzle and ShoeMint (Women)
All us ladies know how expensive shoes can get - especially those that are currently in style. While I fervently believe every woman needs a pair of comfy black heels, sometimes we have to switch it up a bit. And with all the options out there it's enough for a shoe overdose!
Enter Shoedazzle and ShoeMint. Two sites totally dedicated to hot accessories at a price that won't break the bank. And yes, while the shoes do require you to break into them, over time they actually get much comfier (unlike their uber cheap counterparts that always make you want to chop your feet off at the ankle no matter how many times you wear them).
Ideeli (Women)
Another great site that features fun trends at great prices! Also has a spectacular referral program that gives you a $25 credit when your friends make their first purchase.
Birchbox (Men and Women)
Personal grooming is important too! You don't want to walk into an interview without looking great! Birchbox is by far my favorite monthly subscription box - so much in fact that I had cancelled and ended up coming back to it. I have found some of my favorite products thanks to this little box and they also have a great selection of men's personal care products!
Dappered.com (Men)
A site dedicated completely to affordable style for men! Fellas, you have to look good too! A huge thanks to one of our male readers for suggesting this site!
Primer Magazine (Men)
Another awesome men's style site recommended by a friend. Also includes self-development articles and how-to's. Pretty nifty site, I'm not gonna lie.
Michelle Phan, Jessica Harlow and Andrea's Choice (Make-Up/Personal Care)
Ladies, sometimes you need to learn the proper way to use makeup. Just because a certain eyeshadow shade exists doesn't mean you should slap it on your face. They even have a couple of videos for male grooming. Highly recommend checking these gals out!
And that's it! Where do you find sweet deals on more professional attire? Share in the comments below!
And don't forget...
My first ever LIVE coaching workshop is on Wednesday March 13th at 6:30PM! I've teamed up with The Levo League to create a dynamic workshop that will have you shakin' and groovin' (literally) as we get clear about your goals and what's stopping you from going after them. Plus, you'll get the number one tool I use with ALL of my coaching clients to help them bust through blocks. And guess what? It's a free tool you can use ALL THE TIME! The event is also 100% free!
In Person RSVP:
When: Wednesday, March 13th 6:30-8:30PM EST
Where: MiamiShared, West Side Event Space (990 Biscayne Blvd, Office 503, Miami, FL 33132)
Online RSVP:
For those of you who don't live Miami we will be livestreaming the event. Click here to subscribe to the GMW Ustream Channel.
Hope to see you guys in person and online!
Brilliant article. I interviewed someone once who had a Bart Simpson tie on and Homer Simpson socks. This was for a senior management role in a global medical devices company. He wanted to show his ‘wacky’ side. I think he should have changed the ‘c’ to an ‘n’ .
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